Registration Requirements
During the application process, CNO assesses all applicants to determine whether they meet the following registration requirements.
If we find that you do not meet one or more of these requirements, you may be asked to provide more information or do something, such as complete an evaluation or additional education, that allows you to meet those requirements.
You have the right to request a review of your application if you want to appeal any decision made by College staff or the Registration Committee concerning your application.
See Registration Requirements for further information about each of these requirements.
| Requirement |
Description |
| Nursing Education |
You must demonstrate the successful completion of an approved or recognized nursing education program designed to prepare you for the type of nursing (RN or RPN) that you want to practice in Ontario. The required credentials are a baccalaureate for RN and a diploma for RPN applicants. |
| Evidence of Practice |
You must show you have recent experience practicing as a nurse. For more information, click here. |
| Registration Examination |
You must successfully complete the registration examination approved by CNO for the type of nursing (RN or RPN) you want to practice. |
| Transition to Practice |
You must successfully complete the Transition to Practice requirement to demonstrate you are familiar with the competencies specific to the context of practice in Ontario. You can meet this requirement by successfully completing a transition to practice course, which is offered by several schools in Ontario. |
| Jurisprudence Examination |
You must successfully complete the RN/RPN Jurisprudence Examination. |
| Proficiency in English or French |
You must demonstrate proficiency in either English or French. |
| Citizenship |
You must be a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident of Canada or hold authorization under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (Canada) to engage in the practice of nursing in Ontario. |
| Past Offences and Findings |
You must state truthfully whether you have ever been found guilty of an offence, refused registration, had a finding against you related to the practice of nursing or another profession or are involved in certain proceedings. |
| Health and Conduct |
You must declare whether you suffer from any physical or mental condition or disorder that could affect your ability to practice nursing in a safe manner. CNO also must be satisfied that you will practice with decency, honesty, integrity and in accordance with the law. |